Aloha fellow modelers, I have a small question that I am sure someone out there will know. I am modeling an LAV-25 TUA to be part of a larger diorama, while finding pictures and reference material for this I have come across another LAV called a STRYKER. though these vehicles look alike, are they the same one? does this one vehicle in all it’s different models also go by STRYKER? I have also seen some reference pics of the STRYKER vehicle with a fencing on its sides to deflect RPG fire I assume. Does the LAV-25 TUA also use this new type of RPG protection and if it does, Does anyone make any aftermarket parts for it in 1/35, Aloha
LAV-TUA and the Stryker are not the same vehicle. LAV-TUA is the same basic hull as the LAV-25, or a LAV Generation I. The Stryker is a LAV Generation III. It is a totally different vehicle. LAV Gen III is longer, wider, taller, an all-around bigger vehicle. Only the Stryker uses the Bar Armour, I haven’t seen any fitted to USMC LAVs.
Here is a comparison between a LAV 25 and A Stryker (LAV Gen III).
And before you ask, nope, no one makes a model of a Stryker/LAV Gen III. There are lots of rumors that either Tamiya, DML, or Trumpeter will put one out next year. We shall see.
Thanks for the info. arty. I figured someone here would know the answer, Aloha
Some of the Aussie ASLAVs deployed for Operation Catalyst were initially fitted with bar armour. On arrival in Iraq it was found to be cumbersome on patrol/escort duites in urban areas, and I believe has been removed.
There are pre-deployment training pics with the bar armour installed here. http://www.defence.gov.au/opcatalyst/images/gallery/20050420/
Thanks phil, great pics, Aloha down under mate
The only additional armor that was tried on the LAV was a series of ceramic aplique plates hexagonal in shape with velcroe to attach them to the hull. They weigh a couple pounds a piece which when applied ended up adding too much weight to the vehicle, narrow wheel base + thin tires + extra weight ='d bog city. Anyway, pictured below is one of these puppies. A failure in every regard…
…except as a…
Coffee coaster. [;)]
Another interesting pic.
ASLAVs “in country”, in the Al Muthanna Province (Date taken: 23 October 2005)
Note the two front vehicles retain bar armour around the turret.
Wonder if the kept them on to store crap…looks like a good place to chuck extra gear.
The Marine Corps probably paid $2500 a piece for those coasters. I gotta get a Govt contract.
Semper Fi,
Chris